THE issue faced by Pacific Islands people on resettlement as a result of sea level rise was being highlighted by the Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, at the recent PIDF meeting.
He mentioned this in his acceptance speech as the new Chair of the PIDF, and that he feels that the forum (PIDF) deserves to take note of.
Mr Sogavare added, the recent gathering and the forum is the best platform to engage on these issues of critical importance to the Pacific region.
“Distinguished colleagues, this issue cannot be dealt with solely at programmatic level within the many regional bodies that are present with us today; neither can it be reworked by our respective national agencies.
“In my view the issue of the adverse effects of climate change needs political will and concerted leadership.
“The PIDF is uniquely placed to offer this space political commitment and concerted leadership. The nexus between political commitment, concerted leadership, technical know-how and innovative solution is present within the PIDF,” the Prime Minister stated.
“This mix can be blended and brought together to deal with this pressing issue of climate change.
“I have observed that our development partners, some of them are in this room, in particular UNESCAP and the EU have made genuine progress on this issue of climate change and the PIDF, under my Chairmanship will ride on the bandwagon of their partnership in this strategic approach,” PM Sogavare as the new Chair of the PIDF added.
He further stated that, he is convinced that, if all the leaders can come together as a region to address the resettlement of their peoples, they will show the world that they are part of the global solution and not merely victims of the inactions of developed countries.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
